The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority advises that temperatures are forecast to reach 15 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, with daily highs expected to remain above freezing for the rest of the week. Rainfall amounts of approximately 5 mm are forecast on Tuesday, with an additional 15-20 mm Friday into Saturday. The past few days have also been significantly warmer than normal, which has caused snowpack to begin to melt.

Issues

The forecast warmer temperatures and rainfall will continue the melting of snowpack resulting in an increase in water levels throughout the watershed. Stream banks can be slippery and unstable, which combined with extremely cold water temperatures can create hazardous conditions around our rivers and streams. There is also the potential for ice jams and localized flooding. No major flooding is anticipated at this time.

Actions

Hazardous conditions may exist around all waterbodies, as there is a high risk of life-threatening injury if a person falls into the extremely cold water. The public and especially children are advised to stay away from all waterbodies.

The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority continues to monitor river and stream conditions and will issue additional messages as conditions warrant. This Flood Outlook Statement will be in effect until 4:30 p.m., Monday, February 27, 2017.